On May 23, 2025, an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar encountered a severe hailstorm mid-air, causing visible damage to the aircraft’s nose. The flight was operated by an Airbus A321neo and was carrying passengers on a regular domestic route. Despite the frightening weather conditions and damage, the pilots managed to land the plane safely in Srinagar. Fortunately, all passengers were unharmed, and there were no injuries reported.
However, the incident has raised serious concerns about flight safety, especially in areas with restricted airspace due to political tensions. According to reports, the pilots attempted to change their flight route to avoid the hailstorm. But their request to divert was denied by both Indian and Pakistani authorities. The reason: ongoing airspace restrictions between the two countries.
Why Was the Diversion Denied?
India and Pakistan have kept each other’s airspace closed due to recent political and military tensions, particularly following a deadly terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. Because of this, flights from India cannot enter Pakistani airspace, and vice versa.
In this case, when the IndiGo pilots realized the storm ahead was dangerous, they requested permission to take an alternate route. But since that route would have passed through Pakistani airspace, their request was denied. Even an appeal to the Indian Air Force for access to restricted Indian military airspace was reportedly turned down.
As a result, the aircraft had no choice but to continue through the hailstorm. This led to damage to the aircraft’s radome (the nose of the plane), which houses critical navigation equipment.
Safety vs. Security
This situation has sparked a debate about whether security concerns should take priority over safety in the skies. Most aviation experts believe that passenger safety should always come first. In emergencies, pilots need flexibility to take the safest route possible, even if it means briefly entering restricted airspace.
The current rules and restrictions may need to be reviewed to ensure that in dangerous situations, pilots can act without delay or denial. Emergency protocols could be established between neighboring countries, allowing for quick and safe decisions when lives are at risk.
Investigation Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulatory body, has launched an investigation into the incident. The DGCA aims to understand what went wrong and whether the situation was handled properly by all involved parties, including air traffic control and military authorities.
Meanwhile, IndiGo has stated that the damaged aircraft is undergoing inspection and repairs. The airline is fully cooperating with the investigation.
Conclusion
The hailstorm incident is a reminder that flight safety involves not just technology and skilled pilots, but also good communication and coordination between civil and military authorities. It also highlights the importance of putting safety first, even in politically sensitive areas. This event should lead to better emergency protocols so that no flight has to choose between safety and political restrictions again.
